By Josh Rosenberg
Historically high new and used car prices has many car shoppers looking for "older" vehicles that may have aged well as a way of saving money. This has made the issues of reliability and dependability even more crucial.
History has proven the 2010 Escaoe to be reasonably reliable. A properly maintained version can be expected to last in the 200,000 mile range. But the key is, "properly maintained". Many have not been and need to be avoided.
So here, ...
- We'll take a look at its overall pros and cons.
- Then identify those specific areas of possible mechanical problems that have ocurred over time and should be checked before buying one today.
- And then do an overview of this Escape's features as it was released in 2010.
But first, two very important suggestions ...
1. Know How To Get The Lowest Used Car Price:
Get Dealers To Compete For your Business: When you are searching vehicles to possibly purchase, the following is the absolute best way to get the lowest price, and it is extremely easy and stress-free.
Just go to a national car listing site, (I happen to prefer CarsDirect.com for their massive dealer participation and ease of use, although others will get the job done as well) and find several listed vehicles that you may be interested in.
Then write something like the following in the "Check Availability" box or "Contact Dealer" box or whatever the site you are using uses.
"Hello, I've contacted several dealers about cars I am interested in and am looking for the best value. I am also a serious buyer planning to make a decision soon. Please send me your best out-the-door price. Thank you.
After receiving the offers, follow up by explaining that based on the price, you're leaning in another direction but still really like their car and would certainly consider another offer. When dealers drop out, you'll know you're at the best price.
Using the internet to get dealers to compete for your business is extremely important. More details on this and how to intereact with the dealers can be found here at Best Used Car Buying Techniques.
2. Things To Do When Considering An "Older" Vehicle:
Locate Lower Mileage Vehicles: They are certainly out there to be found with careful and patient shopping. Be willing to drive a distance if you have to.
Vehicle History and Maintenance: Ask for the vehicle history report (CarFax or AutoCheck) as well as documented maintenance and repair records. If not provided by the dealer or private seller, it's best to move on.
Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have the vehicle independently inspected before making a final decision. This usually will cost in the $150-$200 range but is well worth it given the potentially thousands in savings over the long term.
2010 Ford Escape Pros
Affordability: As an older model, it's a more affordable purchase.
Proven Reliability: Despite potential issues (see below), many of these models have proven to be durable and reliable if properly maintained.
Ease of Maintenance: Parts are generally widely available and servicing tends to be more straightforward due to the vehicle's age and familiarity in the market.
Simple Technology: Some might prefer its simpler technology compared to more modern and complex infotainment systems.
Good Cargo Space: Offers ample cargo space for its class, making it practical for hauling gear or luggage.
Decent Fuel Economy: Especially with the four-cylinder engine option, it provides decent fuel efficiency for an SUV.
Available All-Wheel Drive: For better traction and handling in adverse weather conditions, all-wheel drive versions were also produced.
Ease of Maneuverability: Its compact size makes it easy to navigate in urban environments and parking lots.
2010 Ford Escape Cons
Aging Technology: Its features and technology are significantly outdated compared to newer vehicles, which could affect comfort and convenience.
Fuel Efficiency: Compared to more recent models, its fuel efficiency might not be as competitive due to advancements in engine technology.
Potential for Repair Costs: As a vehicle ages, wear and tear can lead to more frequent repairs and potential issues cropping up, potentially increasing maintenance costs over time.
Average Interior Quality: While functional, the interior materials might feel less refined compared to more modern SUVs.
Limited Engine Options: The base engine might feel underpowered, and the optional V6 engine is not particularly fuel-efficient.
Ride Comfort: Some drivers find the ride quality to be a bit stiff or less comfortable compared to competitors.
2010 Ford Escape Possible Mechanical Problem Watchlist
It's important to note that while these issues were reported by some owners, not all vehicles experienced these problems, and maintenance history, driving conditions, and how well the vehicle was cared for can significantly influence the likelihood of encountering such issues. Regular maintenance and addressing any potential concerns promptly may have helped prevent or mitigate these problems in many vehicles.
Like all vehicles, the 2010 Escape had mechanical issues reported by owners that should be checked before buying one:
Transmission Problems: Some owners experienced issues with the automatic transmission, such as rough shifting, slipping, or premature failure. Regular maintenance and timely fluid changes are crucial to prevent these issues.
Engine Stalling: Instances of the engine stalling, especially at idle or low speeds, were reported by some owners. This could be due to various factors, including throttle body or idle air control valve issues.
Rust Problems: Certain regions experienced rust problems, particularly on the rear wheel wells and the tailgate. Ford had issued recalls or remedies for some cases related to rust corrosion.
Electrical Issues: Complaints regarding electrical problems, such as malfunctioning power windows, locks, or dashboard lights, were reported by a portion of owners.
Suspension and Steering Concerns: Some drivers noted issues with the suspension, including noises over bumps or a feeling of looseness in the steering.
2010 Ford Escape Overview
The 2010 Ford Escape is an appealing crossover SUV due to its lively engines, outstanding crash test scores and abundance of, at the time, innovative high-tech features.
Changes from the previous year's model include a new driver-side mirror that improves blind spot vision, as well as new options such as an automatic parallel-parking "Auto Park" feature, a rearview camera and MyKey (allows parents to set speed and audio volume limits for their teen drivers). In addition, heated seats were a new standard feature on the Limited model.
And the high-tech goodies abound, including Ford's impressive Sync system which integrates your cell phone and iPod/MP3 player right into the car's control systems. And when equipped with the optional navigation system, the Escape provides real-time traffic, weather, sport scores, movie times and and other convenient information.
In addition to the MyKey and Sync system's, the neat new Auto Park feature allows for easy and stress-free parallel parking by giving the car control over its steering. Not only is it convenient, but it is also supposedly better than those found in much more expensive vehicles.
Standard Features And Options:
The 2010 Escape is classified as a five-passenger compact SUV that's available in three trims: XLS, XLT and Limited. There's also an Escape Hybrid model which will be detailed in a separate review.
Standard features on the already well-equipped base XLS model includes 16-inch alloy wheels, full power accessories, the integrated blind spot driver mirror, cruise control, keyless entry, air conditioning and a 4-speaker sound system with a CD player and auxiliary audio jack.
Optional features on the XLS include the Sync electronics interface, which includes Bluetooth and an iPod interface, and steering wheel audio controls.
The Escape XLT has all of the XLS' equipment plus foglamps, automatic headlights, the MyKey control system, a 6-way power driver seat, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, steering wheel audio controls and satellite radio.
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There are also numerous options available for the XLT. There's a Leather package that adds ambient lighting in addition to the leather upholstery. The Sun & Sync package adds the Sync system and a sunroof.
There's also a Sport Appearance package that includes 17 inch wheels and a number of upgraded interior and exterior trim accents. In addition, there's a 7-speaker stereo upgrade available as a stand-alone option.
The Escape Limited then adds exterior chrome highlights, different 16 inch wheels, a leather interior, heated front seats, Sync and a 6-speaker audio system.
Also available on the Limited is a Luxury package that adds dual-zone automatic climate control, rear parking sensors and a rearview camera. There's also a Moon and Tune package that includes a sunroof and the 7-speaker stereo.
The Limited's stand-alone options include Auto Park and a navigation system which includes the upgraded stereo, digital music storage and Sirius Travel Link (real-time traffic, weather and other information).
Engines, Powertrain And Gas Mileage:
Powering all models of the Ford Escape, which is available with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 171-horsepower. Optional on all models except the XLS is a 3.0-liter V6 that generates 240-horsepower.
The 2.5-engine can be equipped with either a five-speed manual transmission (on the XLS only) or a six-speed automatic. The V6 is only offered with the automatic transmission. A properly equipped V6 Escape has a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds.
The EPA estimated gas mileage for a the four-cylinder, six-speed automatic Escape with front-wheel drive is 20 mpg city and 28 mpg on the highway. All-wheel drive lowers the rating slightly to 19 mpg city and 25 highway. Gas mileage for the V6 with front-wheel-drive comes in at 18 mpg city and 26 highway, while the all-wheel drive gets 17 and 24.
Safety:
Standard safety features on all Escapes include antilock brakes (ABS), stability control, traction control, front-seat side airbags and full-length head curtain airbags.
In government crash testing, the Escape earned the highest scores in all categories, receiving a perfect five out of five stars in both frontal and side impact protection for both driver and passengers.
Interior:
The cabin of the Escape received a nice upgrade several years ago and remains attractive, well-designed and user-friendly, while consisting generally of higher grade materials. Seating, while higher than many SUVs, is still comfortable. Cargo space is also adequate coming in at 29-cubic feet and 66 when the second row is folded down.
Drive:
The Escape offers a pleasant drive with competent acceleration. The electric power steering is very good and makes parking and low-speed maneuvers easy. In addition, the suspension has been tweaked to improve smoothness over rough roads.
Overall:
Given its age, the 2010 Ford Escape could still be a decent choice for someone looking for a budget-friendly SUV. However, it's essential to consider potential maintenance costs and the outdated technology when making a purchase decision. A thorough inspection by a trusted mechanic before buying could help identify any potential issues and give you a clearer picture of the vehicle's condition.
Also, Always Know The Value Of Your Trade-In
Whether you are trading or selling on your own, it's just a good idea ... even whether you are in the market or not at the moment. You can then use this important information for a number of purposes ... to negotiate with a dealer, or to know how to price your car in the retail market, or simply to know the value of one of your assets, which is always a good idea.
Getting trade-in values online tend to vary a lot from site to site. But I've found the one at Edmunds Trade-In Quotes is particularly comprehensive and accurate.
It's free and just takes a couple of minutes. I think what helps its accuracy is the inputs will include either your plate# or VIN# followed by many simple, but specific, yes/no questions. It really focuses in on the detail of the specific vehicle.